Since the foundation of the Cistercian Order in 1098, many different forms of manual labour have found their place in the monastic life of the monks and nuns, quite often involving the production of foods (bread, cheese, beers, liquors... etc). With the passage of time, most of the monasteries began to sell part of their products, using the income from this to provide to their own material needs as well as for social works.

The following products are currently being produced and sold by the monasteries belonging to the International Trappist Association;